5 Paid CDL Training in Florida: Benefits & Key Features

Paid CDL training in Florida can be an excellent pathway to help you earn your CDL license without the burden of high tuition costs. However, with so many options available, it can be difficult to figure out which programs are truly reputable and worth your time. Don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, you’ll discover trusted schools and companies in Florida that offer tuition assistance, paid training, and even job placement

5 paid CDL training in Florida

Cypress Truck School

Cypress Truck School

Founded in 1972 in Jacksonville, Florida, Cypress Truck School has become a trusted name in the transportation industry, offering stability and career opportunities for aspiring drivers. Its paid CDL training program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, licensing, and hands-on experience needed to get on the road and start earning a steady income in a short amount of time.

Key features:

• Paid CDL training program: The program begins with four weeks of classroom instruction, followed by 7-8 weeks of on-the-road training. Students are paid during both phases, allowing them to earn while they learn the essentials of professional truck driving.
• Guaranteed job placement: Upon successful completion, graduates receive their CDL license and are guaranteed employment with Cypress Truck Lines.
• Competitive pay: First-year CDL drivers can expect to earn between $65,000 and $75,000 annually.
• Modern facilities & expert instructors: Training is delivered in a state-of-the-art learning environment by experienced professionals dedicated to student success.
• Comprehensive benefits package: Cypress offers full medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k with 50% company match, paid time off, and a competitive salary structure.

FleetForce Truck Driver Training

FleetForce Truck Driver Training

FleetForce is recognized as one of Florida’s leading truck driving schools, committed to shaping the next generation of professional drivers. With modern training facilities, expert instructors, and strong partnerships with top trucking companies, FleetForce ensures every student is prepared for a successful and rewarding career on the road.

Key features:

• Expert instruction: Learn to safely operate Class A vehicles from state-certified instructors who bring decades of real-world driving experience into the classroom and training yard.
• Flexible programs: Courses run Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, with options including a 4-week Class A program and a 1-week Class B program, tailored to different licensing needs.
• Affordable tuition & financial aid: Tuition typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000, depending on the program. FleetForce partners with major carriers to provide scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and company-sponsored training, allowing many students to start with little to no upfront cost.
• Career support: Strong employer connections mean students often secure job offers before graduation, with opportunities for competitive pay and benefits right from their first year on the road.

Knight Transportation

Knight Transportation

Located in Lakeland, Florida, Knight Transportation is recognized as one of the leading names in the trucking industry, offering a structured CDL training program that prepares students to launch a successful driving career. With a strong commitment to hands-on learning and personalized guidance, Knight ensures every trainee receives the knowledge, skills, and support needed to thrive on the road.

Key features:

• Paid CDL training: Trainees earn up to $500 per week throughout classroom instruction, driving practice, and on-the-road training, allowing them to support themselves while learning.
• Tuition assistance: CDL school tuition is covered upfront through a company-sponsored loan program, which drivers repay gradually through payroll deductions once they begin solo driving.
• Small class sizes: Training sessions are intentionally kept small, ensuring each student receives individualized instruction and mentorship.
• Full training experience: The program combines classroom education, range practice, and over-the-road (OTR) training, giving students real-world driving experience in various conditions.
• Experienced instructors & mentorship: Students are guided by skilled trainers and mentors who provide ongoing support even after completing the program.
• Career growth opportunities: Graduates not only secure a job with Knight Transportation but also gain access to long-term career advancement in one of the nation’s most reputable trucking companies.

U.S Xpress

U.S Xpress

As the second-largest privately owned trucking company in the United States, U.S. Xpress combines the strength of a large carrier with the personal feel of a smaller company. With modern equipment, nationwide opportunities, and a focus on supporting new drivers, U.S. Xpress has built a reputation as a reliable partner for those starting a career in trucking.

Key features:

• Loan assistance: To help drivers manage their CDL training costs, U.S. Xpress contributes an extra $500 toward the student loan every six months as a retention incentive.
• Graduate support bonus: All graduates of the U.S. Xpress Truck Driver Academy receive an additional $200 per month, applied directly to payroll deductions, effective immediately upon employment.
• Nationwide opportunities: With one of the largest fleets in the country, graduates gain access to a wide range of driving routes and career paths across the U.S.

Swift Transportation

Swift Transportation

Based in Ocala, Florida, Swift Transportation operates one of the largest CDL training programs in the country, giving students the opportunity to start a professional truck driving career with structured support and flexible tuition options. With decades of industry experience, Swift provides not only comprehensive training but also job placement, housing, and guidance for new drivers entering the field.

Key features:

• Affordable tuition: The CDL program costs $3,900, which can be paid upfront or through Swift’s interest-free payment plan. Students who self-fund will have $37.50 deducted weekly from their paycheck during the first 52 weeks of employment. In the following 52 weeks, Swift reimburses the same amount back into their paycheck, meaning students who stay with Swift for two full years effectively complete the program at no cost.
• Upfront fees: Depending on the training location, an additional upfront fee ranging from $154 to $400 applies, along with basic living and meal expenses.
• Meals provided: At the San Antonio campus, students receive a complimentary continental breakfast at the hotel daily. All campuses provide a free lunch on the first day of training.
• Housing included: Shared accommodations are arranged for students, typically with 2-5 roommates per room, depending on the training site.

FAQs

1. What companies will pay for your CDL training in Florida?

Companies that will pay for your CDL training in Florida include Cypress Truck School, FleetForce Truck Driver Training, Knight Transportation, U.S Xpress, Swift Transportation,…

2. How can I get my CDL for free in Florida?

You can earn your CDL at little to no cost by enrolling in a company-sponsored training program or applying for scholarships and workforce grants. Many trucking companies will cover your tuition and sometimes even housing and meals, in exchange for working with them for 12-24 months after graduation.

Final thoughts

Paid CDL training in Florida opens the door to opportunities for every truck driver. Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from pursuing a trucking career. Hopefully, the companies and programs listed above will guide you toward the right path and help you take the first step toward a successful future on the road.